JLR brings fresh look to F-Type

By: MIKE OCHONMA   

Recognised as the most dynamically capable, performance-focused Jaguar, the F-TYPE sports car has continued to evolve, with a fresh look and Jaguar’s world-class, super-fast Touch-pro infotainment system.

Since launch in 2012, Jaguar’s all-aluminium two-seater has firmly established itself as the best-selling sports car in its segment in its home market, with almost 160 awards worldwide in the kitty.

The unrivalled balance of seductive design, stunning performance and outstanding dynamics has always made the F-TYPE unique, in a range that has evolved to include Coupé body styles, manual transmissions and intelligent all-wheel drive.

The new range offers even more driver-focused technology and a broader model range than ever, comprising 28 derivatives from the purist appeal of the rear-wheel drive 250kW F-TYPE to the 322 km/h, all-wheel drive F-TYPE SVR described as Jaguar’s all-weather supercar.

Every model now features the Touch-Pro infotainment system. Its super-fast responses, intuitive tablet-style operation, intelligent navigation functions such as Share ETA and online services such as real-time traffic and live weather reports make every journey more rewarding and put a world of information at the driver’s fingertips.

True enthusiasts will be able to capture and share their driving experiences using the new ReRun app developed in collaboration with GoPro. In a world-first, the app combines real-time video from the driver’s GoPro with key vehicle performance data including speed, throttle position, gear selection, braking force and g-force. The high quality video including unique ‘highlights’ sections can be downloaded to the driver’s smartphone and shared on social media.

The award-wining design is stronger and more focused, with clearer visual range differentiation thanks to model-specific front bumpers. Full LED headlights boost visual appeal still further and help improve driver safety and comfort.

“Great sports car design is about proportion and purity. The most challenging element of the process for designers is to focus on and maintain an exciting silhouette that promises performance. For the 2018 model year F-TYPE, we looked at how we could fine-tune key details to deliver even more clarity of purpose in the overall design – for the driver, the passenger and onlookers,” said Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar.

The addition of lightweight slim line seats and new chrome and aluminium trim finishers heighten the driver-focused feel of the interior and perfectly complement the enhanced interior colour schemes including the Siena Tan leather option now available across the range.

To mark the introduction of the new F-TYPE range, Jaguar has developed the exclusive 400 Sport launch edition, which will go on sale worldwide but for one model year only. The new range goes on sale from the second quarter of this year.

Power from the new 294kW version of the 3.0-litre supercharged V6 engine is complemented by an uprated chassis comprising the super performance braking system, Configurable Dynamics and 20-inch wheels with a unique Dark Satin Grey finish.

Interior design elements include 400 Sport branding in the centre console, steering wheel, tread-plates and embroidered headrests. Yellow contrast stitching features throughout the cabin.

The R-Dynamic model is new to the core range. This specification is available with both the 250kW and 280kW versions of the supercharged V6, broadening customer choice, and is distinguished by19-inch and 20-inch alloy wheel designs and by the front bumper’s Gloss Black aperture bezels.

Joining the F-TYPE’s comprehensive suite of driver-focused assistance systems is a semi-automated park-assist function designed to make parallel parking in even the tightest of spaces quicker and easier.

When passing a potential space, the car’s ultrasonic parking sensors measure its length. If suitable, the system takes care of the steering: all the driver has to do is press a button, engage reverse and control the throttle and brakes. The system will also guide the vehicle out of the space when it’s time to leave.